Teen lifeguards honored by Daniels Fund

Isaac Garcia gets a kiss from Jackie Henderson, grandmother of Victor Richardson, left, after the two received The Bill Daniels Neighborhood Hero Award on Tuesday. The two lifeguards at Hiawatha Davis Recreation Center rescued and revived a teen who nearly drowned in May. Garcia and Richardson received plaques, gifts and $500 checks. (Grant Hindsley, The Denver Post)

The highlight of my week was reading about Victor Richardson and Isaac Garcia. It is inspiring to read about such courageous, kind and quick-thinking people, and it was great that they were recognized for saving a drowning person as recipients of the Daniels Neighborhood Hero Award and a front-page photo and story. Thank you for running a feel-good story, and so prominently. Is it too late for them to run for mayor of New York City?

Joanne Belknap, Boulder

This letter was published in the Aug. 7 edition.

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What is it about these human interest stories that excite people like Joanne? Public rescue people DOING THEIR JOB, and they get awards, cash, and the picture in the paper. Does Joanne feel the cop that pulled her over for “illegal lane change” deserve an award for doing his job? These are people who’s job IS to save lives. Lifeguards aren’t just about blowing their whistles and yelling “no running!” They’re supposed to rescue people and resuscitate victims. Paramedics don’t get awards and they do this daily. .Because their teens, they should be recognized, but no rewarded. I’ve been a life guard and pulled a drowning kid from a pool. I got lots of thanks. It was enough.

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